White Chicks

Released: 2004

Reviewed: 11.25.09

Star rating: 2 out of 5

Shawn Wayans (Kevin), Marlon Wayans (Marcus), Jaime King (Heather), Frankie Faison (Chief), Lochlyn Munro (Jake), John Heard (Warren), Busy Philipps (Karen), Terry Crews (Latrell), Brittany Daniel (Megan).

Kevin and Marcus are a couple of FBI agents who are about to lose their jobs after a drug bust is ruined by the Wilson sisters. Then assigned to protect the sisters from the drug dealers, the brothers decide the best way to catch the criminals is to impersonate the two girls.

Basically this is two black men dressing as uppity rich white girls, trying to fit into their upper class lifestyle, and catch the bad guys. The premise is good and the film delivers a few laughs but it isn't anywhere near as funny as it could have been. The first 20 minutes were funny then the bad makeup, dumb blonde jokes, and making fun of white folks got old. After that, the film just got boring and repetitive. What there was of a plot was really incidental to the idea of black men dressing like white girls and basically poking fun at whites. Where this movie was a non-event I can only imagine what would happen were some white men to try and dress like black women and make the same movie.

I do have to give credit to the Wayans brothers. Despite the plot, and lame dialogue, they actually have some acting ability. Crews was the one bright spot for me and was absolutely hysterical in his role. Supporting work wasn't bad but could have been a lot more.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were nicely done. Dialogue was ridiculous as expected while the soundtrack wasn't half bad, thanks to Vanessa Carlton.

Overall this was a decent teen chick-flick but it wasn't the hysterical comedy I had hoped to see. The recycling of the same basic jokes over and over ruined this one, which could have been a much better film. Some crude humor but this should be fine for teens and above.

Cannibal! The Musical

Released: 1996

Reviewed: 11.24.09
Star rating: 2 out of 5

Trey Parker (Alferd Packer), Matt Stone (James Humphries), Dian Bachar (George), Stephen Blackpool (Black Cat), Duster (Liane), Brad Gordon (Mills), Ian Hardin (Shannon), Edward Henwood (Cyclops), Jon Hegel (Isreal), Andrew Kemler (Nutter), Masao Maki (Indian Chief).

Packer, the first known American cannibal, leads a party of gold prospectors from Utah into Colorado getting stranded by a Rocky Mountain winter in the process. As the hysterical show-tunes, sight gags, and raunchy humor relentlessly continue the group realizes eating each other may be their only means of survival.

Yes, these are the same guys (Trey Parker and Matt Stone) who did South Park. And they should have stuck with that instead of trying to make a musical mockery out of the Packer story. This one started off with a whimper and a show-tune and continued to drill the ridiculous depravity into your brain until your skull wanted to explode. The only thing that kept it interesting were the sexually crude and suggestive lyrics such as my favorite, "The sky is always blue, when I'm on top of you". This was like watching a train wreck in slow motion but much less interesting and without any decent blood or guts whatsoever. All that kept us watching was the absolute disbelief that such a film was produced and the misplaced hope that Parker (not Packer) would be beheaded at some point.

Acting was. . .missing? Ok, that's unfair. Many of the actors here put forth absolutely ridiculous performance which is what I hope they wanted to do. If not, they were horrible. No exceptions.

Camera work might have been done by a kid with an iPhone considering the washed out colors, fuzzy focus, and repetitive close-up shots. Backgrounds and sets were decent considering the overall quality of the film. Dialogue was a mix of ridiculous and ridiculously funny.

I guess I was expecting something funnier from the South Park boys but for the most part this one was just boring. The whole show-tune thing turned me off a bit, probably because a cat receiving a Diet Sprite enema from Jack Nicholson could have sung better than any them in this film.

Overall, disappointing. Severe blunt trauma to the head might improve it a bit but still, don't get your hopes up. My only hope is they get the real Packer a role in the sequel, if there ever is one, and he will eliminate the chance of this happening again. With some comedic gore, violence, and foul language save this for older teens and those in a coma.

Sugar Hill

Released: 1993

Reviewed: 11.23.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Wesley Snipes (Roemello), Khandi Alexander (Ella), Clarence Williams III (AR Skuggs), Abe Vigoda (Gus), Michael Wright (Raynathan), Ernie Hudson (Lolly), Theresa Randle (Melissa).

Roemello and Raynathan have lived the tough life, watching their mother die by overdose then becoming dealers of the same drug that killed her and made their father useless. But with new dealers moving in, and a new girlfriend, Roemello is ready to quit and settle down into a different type of life. But it doesn't seem that life is going to let that happen.

This one starts with a bit of background and character development before sliding into the plot. Good action and drama keep the film moving along but since we have probably already guessed at some of the things that will happen it seems to move more slowly than it is. Although the plot does have a point the film goes to great pains to show the hard lives that several of the characters have taken in life. With guns, drugs, sex, love, and violence this one has a little bit of everything for everyone.

Acting was pretty good by everyone. Snipes did a decent job with his role as usual. Wright was great as the crime focused violent younger brother. Williams was excellent as the drugged out dad while Randle did well as the love interest in the film. Even Vigoda did a nice job as a crime boss. No great performances here but good solid acting all around.

Camera work, sets, and background were all nicely done with good detail. Sound and dialogue were pretty good as was the soundtrack.

Overall a nice little crime drama if you enjoy the genre. No big revelations or surprises here, just a nitty gritty story that is told pretty well. Explicit drug use, violence, and plenty of foul language so save this for older teens and above.

Meteor

Released: 2009
Reviewed: 11.22.09
Star rating: 2 out of 5

Christopher Lloyd (Dr. Lehman), Marla Sokoloff (Imogene), Jason Alexander (Dr. Chetwyn), Stacy Keach (Police Chief), Ernie Hudson, Billy Campbell, Mimi Michaels, Kenneth Mitchell, Michael Rooker.

A huge meteor is flying at the Earth while Dr. Lehman and Imogene are the only ones who have the information Dr. Chetwyn needs to possibly save the planet. As Earth gets pummeled by meteorites ahead of the big one people panic, communications fails, and an ex-cop gone crazy is wreaking havoc on the small town of Taft.

This was apparently a made for tv mini-series that must have had a nice budget considering the production quality. Strangely enough, I had a hard time finding credit information on the film. Almost as if the big names removed themselves after production was complete, or maybe it is just to new. The film started off a bit slow but picked up the pace pretty quickly. There was a fair amount of action and stress which kept things moving but the film focused much more on the drama resulting from the meteor than the actual destruction, sci-fi aspect, or technical side of things. Not bad, just not what I was hoping for when I popped this in the DVD player. And after 3 hours, it got a bit tiresome watching Imogene get every gun she held taken away from her.

Acting was mixed with Sokoloff, Hudson, and Rooker doing nicely. Alexander was ridiculous and Keach, although he did well, is getting hard to swallow as a rough and tumble cop anymore.

Camera work, sets, and background were all nicely done. The film felt like a high quality production despite re-use of some CGI meteor shots. Sound and dialogue were okay but plain. Effects were about what you would expect for a tv series with a decent budget. Nothing incredible but decent.

Overall this was a well done drama that moved along nicely. It was a middle of the road end of the world disaster film. And it was a horrible sci-fi. Depending on what you are hoping for, you will probably really like this one or absolutely hate it. Being made for TV this one is pretty much okay for all audiences.

Grace

Released: 2009

Reviewed: 11.21.09
Star rating: 2 out of 5

Jordan Ladd (Madeline), Stephen Park (Michael), Gabrielle Rose (Vivian), Serge Houde (Henry), Samantha Ferris (Patricia), Kate Herriot (Shelly), Malcolm Stewart (Dr. Sohn), Tenai Measmer and Annabel Bast (Grace).

Madeline is involved in an accident that kills the fetus she is carrying. Rather than having it removed she decides to have the baby stillborn. But when the time comes the baby is alive, and hungry. But this baby doesn't want milk, it wants blood.

This one starts off slow with character development then shifts into the plot which never seems to develop very well. The story is a bit freaky and definitely has a horror element but there is a lot left unexplained. We never really find out exactly why Grace comes to life after being stillborn or why she craves blood. Madeline's relationship with Patricia is never explained, nor is the animosity or strange behavior of her mother-in-law, Vivian. It felt like the film depended on the gore and disturbing plot concept to tell the story rather than acting, plot development, or simple explanation. After a while the film stalls and just becomes redundant which is also about the time we realize the entire story could have been told with the same impact in under 30 minutes.

Acting by Ladd was interesting if not good. Stewart wasn't bad but most everyone else was seriously lacking in this one. They seemed to be either inexperienced or truly clueless about their roles.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were simplistic and minimal giving the impression of a somewhat low budget film. Sound and dialogue were acceptable but could have done a lot more for the film.

Overall the plot concept was very good but the film lacked any kind of energy or tangible direction. From the reaction of my female co-viewer I would say women will feel a much stronger impact with this one than men. Plenty of blood and gore, some violence and sexual content so save this for older teens and above.

ZA: Zombies Anonymous aka. Last Rites of the Dead

Released: 2006

Reviewed: 11.19.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Gina Ramsden (Angela), Joshua Nelson (Josh), Christa McNamee (Commandant), Gaetano Iacono (Gooch), Constantine Taylor (Malcolm), Mary Verruto (Solstice).

Imagine a world where zombies coexist with regular mortal humans but are considered second-class citizens. When people are killed, they keep living but as zombies. Angela finds this out the hard way when her boyfriend kills her. As she tries to pass as mortal she and other zombies find their hunger for human flesh growing and their reasons not to start a war shrinking.

I liked how the film started off looking like a strange documentary then switched to focusing on Angela's story. The film then refocused later to show the struggle between the 'races', humans and zombies. There is actually a surprising amount of social commentary here for a zombie flick. There is also plenty of blood, guts, gore and violence. Almost a zombie flick that feeds the mind and the emotions! Almost. Sadly the plot seemed disjointed at times, the acting not so great, and production work second rate. Despite all of that, I actually liked this one more than I should have.

Acting wasn't very good by anyone involved. Ramsden, Nelson and a few others gave passing performances while others, such as McNamee, were completely over the top or downright ridiculous.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were obviously low budget and almost dropped this one into B-movie territory. Without the social commentary I think it would have been a solid B flick but as it is, the film is almost depressing. With a better budget this could have been so much more but as an Indie entry, it was pretty good.

Sound and dialogue were okay while special effects alternated between elementary and decent.

Overall not a bad zombie flick but not one to get excited about either. For true genre fans put this about the middle of your Must See list. Blood, guts, gore, violence, foul language, and mild sexuality so save this for the oldest teens and above.

My Cousin Vinny

Released: 1992
Reviewed: 11.19.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Joe Pesci (Vinny), Ralph Macchio (Billy), Marisa Tomei (Mona), Mitchell Whitfield (Stan), Fred Gwynne (Judge), Lane Smith (Trotter), Bruce McGill (Sheriff), Austin Pendleton (John), Chris Ellis (JT).

Billy and Stan decide to go on a roadtrip and have a bit of fun. But when they are falsely accused of murdering a convenience-store clerk in a middle-of-nowhere southern town who do they call. . . Vinny! Bam, in rolls Vinny with his big New York ways, fast talking lawyer attitude, and obnoxious girlfriend. But can he win the case?

The film starts off looking like a PG-13 flick and I was really afraid Macchio would have a major role and ruin the entire film. Fortunately he barely spoke before Pesci showed up. Not a big Pesci fan, I thought I would hate the film at this point but I didn't. Add in Tomei as the obnoxious loud girlfriend and again I was worried. But thankfully I was wrong. Macchio didn't have many lines, Pesci was actually pretty good in his role, and Tomei was absolutely hysterical even if they made her look about as unattractive as I've ever seen her. Toss in Gwynne as the somewhat humorous judge, Smith and McGill as hardnoses, and Pendleton as more comedic relief and you have a pretty good film. Some good laughs and stereotypical humor kept the story moving right along.

As mentioned acting from Pesci was pretty good. And Tomei did a nice job as well. Supporting actors all did nicely and added to the quality of the film.

Camera work, sets, background, and sound were good though nothing extremely special. Dialogue was about what you would expect from a comedy with Pesci.

Overall an enjoyable little comedy worth watching if you want something light-hearted with an actual plot that functions. Plenty of F-bombs in this one so save it for older teens and above unless your kids are okay with that type of language.

Eye of the Killer aka. After Alice

Released: 1999
Reviewed: 11.19.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Kiefer Sutherland (Mickey), Henry Czerny (Harvey), Polly Walker (Dr. Swann), Gary Hudson (John), Ronn Sarosiak (Ray), Stephen Quimette (Gideon), Eve Crawford (Margaret), Loren Petersen (Alice), Alexander Chapman (Claudette).

Mickey is a cop who, while chasing a thief, hits his head and upon awakening finds he now has the power of Psychometry (the ability to see events by touching objects). His new skill comes in handy when he is assigned the Jabberwocky serial killer case. With his confused partner in tow, Mickey digs into the case despite his problems with alcohol, his ex-wife, his boss, his partner, and pretty much anyone else he comes across.

This one kicks off pretty well looking like your typical cops-and-robbers type flick. But as Mickey's new power is revealed the film takes a much more interesting turn. Unfortunately, once we go around the curve the rest of the film including the ending isn't hard to figure out. The mystery part of the film really isn't much of a mystery so the enjoyment comes from seeing how the film gets to the ending.

Acting was mediocre from pretty much everyone in this one. Sutherland delivers a decent performance but not his best by a long shot. Czerny was quite entertaining and this film is old enough it was fun to see how he came to fit the semi-crazed loony role. Everyone else did well but again, nothing spectacular to see here.

Camera work, sets and background were all nicely done and the film appears to have had a decent budget. Dialogue was okay but could have been better and sound was just fine.

Overall this is a fairly average crime thriller all around. With a good plot the film could have been much more but it just never built that much energy. With plenty of violence, blood, foul language, and some sexual scenes save this one for older teens and above.

Mr. Holland's Opus

Released: 1995
Reviewed: 11.19.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Richard Dreyfuss (Glenn Holland), Glenne Headly (Iris Holland), Jay Thomas (Bill), Olympia Dukakis (Principal Jacobs), William H. Macy (Wolters), Alicia Witt (Gertrude), Terrence Howard (Louis), Jean Kelly (Rowena), Anthony Natale (Cole).

Glenn Holland is passionate about music and dreams of writing an opus but, that isn't paying the bills. So he takes a job as a high school music teacher figuring it will tide him over and allow him time to write his opus. A lifetime later however, he finds it is his teaching that has made him who he is, not the opus.

This film kicked off a bit slow jumping right into plot and character development but it wasn't long before I was hooked on the emotional component. As Mr. Holland's life unfolded the comedic highs punctuated with emotionally charged moments was a joy to watch. The film did a wonderful job of capturing not only the joy of music, but the work involved and sometimes the painful realization by some that creating music will be more than difficult for them. The ending was great and not one that is expected.

Acting by Dreyfuss was excellent. Having never been a big fan I was truly impressed with him in this role. Headly, Thomas, and Dukakis all did a wonderful job supporting. Macy was a bit hard to believe in the beginning but came around for the second half of the film.

Camera work, sets and background were all nicely done. Sound was very well done with some wonderful selections of music, both classical and more modern. Dialogue was also quite enjoyable.

Overall I was quite impressed with this drama. The plot, acting, and music were all very good and the story moved along well throughout the film. Anyone with a passion for music or the drama genre will probably find this a very enjoyable film. Put it toward the top of your Must See list. Some mild foul language but this should be fine for preens and above.

Population 436

Released: 2006

Reviewed: 11.16.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Jeremy Sisto (Steve Kady), Fred Durst (Bobby), Leigh Enns (Kathy), Rick Skene (Ray), David Fox (Dr. Greaver), RH Thomson (Sheriff Colcutt), Frank Adamson (Mayor Grateman).

Census taker Steve is sent to Rockwell Falls to figure out how the town has had a population of 436 for over 100 years. Upon arrival it isn't long before he begins to realize something isn't right and he realizes he is a prisoner. Struggling to save himself, his new love, and a young girl even as the town forces him to obey their rules, he may make it out alive only to find out staying would have been better.

This one starts off a bit slow looking like it really isn't going anywhere interesting. With a lot of character and plot development, things are moving along pretty slow. Then suddenly the plot drops a bomb and this film becomes much more interesting than expected. After that it settles into typical suspense mode for a while until the ending which drops another bomb that leaves you questioning what you thought throughout the entire film. Don't get me wrong, this wasn't a monumental film or anything like that but it did deliver a wolf in sheeps clothing quite nicely.

Acting unfortunately didn't help this one much. Although Sisto did okay he just didn't seem to bring the energy needed for the film. Most of the supporting actors seemed much more sincere in their roles and did very nicely.

Camera work, sets and background were all very well done. For a film I hadn't heard of before the production work on this one looked very good and it appears to have had a decent budget. Not much in the way of special effects, nor were they needed. Sound and dialogue were also very nicely done.

Overall this was a very enjoyable film that held your attention well once the plot got going. This is a psychological thriller by the way, not a horror flick. Some violence and one fairly explicit sexual scene with some mild nudity so save this one for older teens and above.

Gabriel Iglesias: Hot and Fluffy

Released: 2007
Reviewed: 11.16.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Gabriel is back where he came from, Bakersfield, California. In this Comedy Central production he uses a variety of voices and sound effects to talk about everything from his weight to his family and in between.

I hadn't heard of Gabriel before seeing this production and went into it with low expectations. Face it, the cover just looks like a bad Disney production. I was happily surprised that I was wrong, he is very good! I enjoyed this style of storytelling that is as much comedy as it is entertainment. Sometimes the punch lines weren't all that great but many were. Even better, he was able to deliver a few as a surprise which is unusual for comedians these days. I was also impressed at the lack of foul language and sexual or drug references. Again, unusual for comedians these days. He did walk the line of racism but I didn't find anything offensive.

The most enjoyable thing about him I think is the variety of voices he is able to produce. Absolutely amazing. And his facial expressions really bring home the jokes a lot of the time.

Overall not the funniest guy ever, but extremely entertaining and impressive that he can deliver as many laughs as he does cleanly.

With mild foul language and adult humor this one should be fine for teens and above.

Rise of the Gargoyles

Released: 2009
Reviewed: 11.15.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Eric Balfour (Jack), Tanya Clarke (Carol), Nick Mancuso (Father Gable), Caroline Neron (Nicole), Justin Salinger (Walsh), Ifan Huw Dafydd (Gibert).

Carol takes Jack, a professor and gargoyle fan, to explore a condemned Parisian church built upon a church. As they marvel at the wonderful gargoyle artistry and explore they find the nesting place of a real gargoyle. And when Carol sneaks out a few gargoyle eggs the result is one unhappy flying monster that wants her eggs back!

Being a big fan of gargoyles myself I was excited when I stumbled across this one but because of others I've seen, I didn't expect much. Fortunately this wasn't a half-bad horror flick. The film starts off pretty well with some minor character development before Jack and Carol run across the mommy gargoyle. After that the pace was pretty much blood and gore, minor plot advancement, brief dramatic interlude, repeat, repeat, repeat. Though the pace got a bit mundane the film was still enjoyable with some nice gargoyle CGI and some good gore moments with entrails and flying heads.

Acting was a mixed bag with Balfour and Mancuso overacting at times. It didn't help that to me Balfour looked like a comic book super-hero. Neron was awful and apparently cast for one reason only, her low-cut t-shirts. Salinger wasn't bad and looks like he has potential.

Effects were mixed, with some really lame gore shots in parts but some nice gargoyle CGI at times. I wish they would have shown more of the gargoyle. Camera work, sets and backgrounds were nice as was sound. Dialogue was okay while the soundtrack was completely forgettable.

Overall this wasn't a bad supernatural horror flick that could have been a lot more with better casting. If you are a gargoyle fan or horror die-hard check it out. No nudity, no sex, minor foul language, blood, gore, and decapitations so depending on the tolerance for gore this should be fine for teens and above.

Fearless

Released: 1993
Reviewed: 11.14.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Jeff Bridges (Max), Isabella Rossellini (Laura), Rosie Perez (Carla), Tom Hulce (Brillstein), John Turturro (Dr. Perlman), Benicio Del Toro (Manny).

When Max survives a plane crash and helps a few others survive as well he is a changed man and hailed as a hero. But when Max decides maybe he is immortal his behavior becomes dangerous and strange. And when he befriends fellow survivor Carla at behest of Dr. Perlman, he puts his marriage and family at risk.

This one kicks off pretty well with some action up front then jumps right into plot development, growing the characters throughout the film. After the crash Max seems convinced he is either dead or immortal but spends his time trying to convince others to live. A journey of self-discovery, at times he almost seems to realize he is doing the wrong things but then convinces himself he isn't. In the emotional ending, he makes some final discoveries but for me it just didn't tie the movie together very well.

Acting was good by Bridges and Perez and they seemed to have an interesting chemistry. Rossellini was mixed seeming somewhat detatched at times. Turturro was interesting as always, as was Del Toro.

Camera work, sets and backgrounds were all good and consisten with the overall theme of the film. Sound and dialogue were also good though there wasn't anything profound.

Overall I just didn't feel the impact from this film that I see in a lot of other reviews. It was good, and it was interesting, but not as revealing as I expected. I put this one about the middle of the road as far as dramas go, with both better and worse films out there.

With some foul language and disturbing plane crash scenes, save this for older teens and above.

Paranormal Activity

Released: 2007 (actual 2009)
Reviewed: 11.12.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Katie Featherston (Katie), Micah Sloat (Micah), Mark Fredrichs (The Psychic), Ashley Palmer (Diane), Amber Armstrong (Amber).

Katie has been haunted by paranormal activity in her past but now that she has moved in with her boyfriend Micah, he decides to do something about it. Using a video camera he documents as much of the strange happenings as possible over several weeks in 2006. As paranormal activity increases both Katie and Micah become more concerned with their safety and a way to end the nightmare.

This one starts off calmly enough but with the media hype we were ready for the scares. As character development progresses and the plot begins to take shape the tension mounts a bit and we were still ready for the scares. And when the plot really gets active, we waited for the scares. Then in the last few minutes of the film, we finally got some scares! This film was a serious disappointment compared with all the media hype. There were some BOO moments but there wasn't enough to keep the film scary, though it was interesting.

Acting was decent from Featherston who played the stressed out semi-frigid somewhat schizoid girlfriend. And Sloat did nicely as the seemingly intelligent boyfriend who turned into a testosterone powered jerk before all was done.

Camera work was decent and I did enjoy how this was filmed in the first person context as it lent to the feel of reality. Special effects were decent but again, there just wasn't enough to keep the film scary. Sets were minimal as was soundtrack giving the appearance of a low budget flick. Dialogue and sound were nicely done.

Overall a decent supernatural horror flick worth watching at home but not paying for at a theatre. If you really want to be scared find something else, this one just doesn't do it. With some foul language and BOO moments this should be fine for teens and above.

Gnaw

Released: 2008

Reviewed: 11.12.09

Star rating: 1 out of 5

Hiram Bleetman (Ed), Carrie Cohen (Mrs Obadiah), Nigel Croft-Adams (Jack), Sara Dylan (Lorrie), Gary Faulkner (Judd), Rachel Mitchem (Jill), Oliver Squires (Matt), Julia Vandoorne (Hannah), Jennifer Wren (Amy).

Six friends set out for a holiday at a remote farm set in the beautiful English countryside. Upon arrival they are treated to loads of yummy meat treats by their host. But when they begin to question what they are eating, and come to realize they are on the menu at this cannabalistic bed and breakfast, things don't look so yummy anymore.

This one jumps right into the horror up front with a nightgown clad girl wandering the woods before being caught and tortured. The film then switches to the six friends and their tangled romantic lives involving overactive sex drives and cheating. Characters are developed and we find the typical horror template has been used; the sex crazy couple, egotistical jerk, fridgid girlfriend, moping goth girl sleeping with her best friends guy, sympathetic dork secretly harboring love for goth girl. Add in a sadistic nut with a knife who doesn't talk throughout the film and a crazy old lady and poof, instant horror flick. Sadly, this one has failure all over it. Very few of the gore scenes are even shown with the film relying instead on the implied horror of cannabilism. In addition, the plot focuses heavily on possibility goth girl is pregnant and doesn't utilize that bit of information until the end of the movie in a failed attempt at creating a huge emotional impact.

Acting was bland at best by everyone here which didn't help the lack of graphic effects or less than impressive plot. Camera work and sets were lifeless and although backgrounds were good, they weren't utilized well at all. Dialogue was worthless though sound was fairly well done.

Overall this was a completely forgettable film all around with few redeeming qualities if any. There were a couple of decent gore shots and BOO moments but they just couldn't save the serious lack of energy and creativity in this film. I recommend you forget you heard about this one and move on to something more entertaining, unless you want a lesson in what not to do in a horror flick. Some foul language, sex scenes, gore and violence so save this for older teens and above.

Gone

Released: 2007

Reviewed: 11.11.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Shaun Evans (Alex), Scott Mechlowicz (Taylor), Yvonne Strahovski (Sondra), Amelia Warner (Sophie), Victoria Thaine (Lena).

Brit Alex has just arrived in Australia and is headed to meet up with his girlfriend Sophie when he meets Taylor, a friendly American. The two pair up to meet with Sophie so she and Alex can go on vacation together. When they finally meet Sophie and let Taylor tag along on their holiday Alex begins to suspect something isn't right, but Sophie isn't buying it. Before long though, she will.

This is a somewhat deceiving thriller as it starts off pretty mild and takes a long time developing any steam. With about 20 minutes left in the film, after the audience has become connected with the characters, things take off and get quite exciting. By that time the plot is well developed and although we pretty much know what is coming, the ending is still quite good. I really enjoyed how the film started with one main character and ended with another leaving you to realize afterwards that neither were actually the main character in the film.

I actually thought the acting was decent in this one. Evans was a bit green but Mechlowicz and Warner both played their parts pretty well. It helped that both were very enjoyable to look at as well. Supporting work from Thaine and Strahovski was to brief to rate.

Sets and background consisted mainly of the Australian outback which although appropriate and fitting, also made the film feel somewhat low budget at times. Camera work was nicely done throughout the film. Special effects, mainly blood and gore, were also good as was the dialogue.

I put this one squarely in the middle of the road since it really didn't bring anything new to the thriller, stalker, teen scream arena. Violence, foul language, a couple of sexual scenes, and one scene of brief nudity but this should be okay for older teens and above.

Kate & Leopold

Released: 2001
Reviewed: 11.10.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Meg Ryan (Kate), Hugh Jackman (Leopold), Liev Schreiber (Stuart), Breckin Meyer (Charlie), Bradley Whitford (JJ).

Stuart is a scientist obsessed with time travel which has caused his relationship with Kate to fail. But when he finally travels through time and inadvertantly brings back Leopold, a 19th century Duke, his vindication is short-lived when he ends up in the hospital. And when Kate meets Leopold it doesn't take long for romance to be born, though Leopold must soon return to his own time or forever alter history.

This is a good, light-hearted romantic comedy that doesn't take itself to seriously. The film starts off by quickly jumping into the time travel concept then using plot development in conjunction with character history and development. Although the plot is somewhat predictible it is kept interesting by bits of comedy and romantic detours. When it becomes obvious a climax is coming the movie moves along a bit faster as the tension builds for the inevitable romantic conclusion.

Acting was quite enjoyable in this film. Though Ryan delivers as usual, there isn't anything new from her here. Jackman was wonderful fitting the part in both speech and style. Schreiber actually made a very good scientist while Meyer brings a nice sense of humor to the film. Whitford also did well playing Kate's less than ethical boss.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were all nicely done and the film had a good quality feel. Sound and dialogue were also well done. The soundtrack was good and couldn't have been otherwise with both Mancini and Sting included. Special effects were minimal and done in consistency with the film.

Overall this was a enjoyable romantic comedy that had just the right mix of romance, comedy, and solid plot to keep things interesting. I think there was a little foul language but this one should be fine for teens and above.

Payback

Released: 2006

Reviewed: 11.9.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Mel Gibson (Porter), Gregg Henry (Val), Deborah Unger (Lynn), Maria Bello (Rosie), James Coburn (Fairfax), William Devane (Carter), Lucy Liu (Pearl), David Paymer (Stegman).

Porter, Lynn and Val pull a heist and get away clean but when it comes time to split the loot Lynn and Val steal Porter's share and leave him for dead after shooting him in the back. But now Porter is back and wants his money, and revenge. As the double-crosses pile up, and the people wanting Porter dead increases will he get back his money and be able to live his life?

This one kicks off pretty well with the feel of a good crime drama which is actually plot background. Quickly switching to character and plot development the film starts to look more like an action flick and eventually morphs into a crime thriller. Although the plot was interesting it did have a few holes. That isn't what makes the film though, it is the lack of conscience. Ever wanted revenge but knew morality would keep you from getting it? Not Porter. It doesn't matter if the bad guy is beaten, broken and Porter has what he wants. If he feels the guy should be killed, he is killed without so much as a grimace. Just suspend reality for a bit since Porter seems to be invincible for most of the film.

Acting was pretty good. I usually enjoy Gibson and he did nicely here. Henry, Unger and Bello did very well in support roles as did Coburn and Devane. Liu was a big surprise and I loved her in the role of Pearl.

Camera work, sets, backgrounds, sound, effects, and action scenes were all nicely done and the film appears to have had a nice budget. Dialogue was mixed with some great lines and some ridiculous lines.

Overall, a nice crime thriller though it wasn't anything special. Just nicely, solidly done. Graphic violence, foul language, and mild nudity so this one is okay for the oldest teens and above.

Crank 2: High Voltage

Released: 2009
Reviewed: 11.8.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Jason Statham (Chev Chelios), Amy Smart (Eve), Dwight Yoakam (Doc Miles), Efren Ramirez (Venus), Corey Haim (Randy), Geri Halliwell (Karen), Art Hsu (Johnny Vang).

After surviving the assault by an Asian gang in the first film Chev is back in this sequel to track down an Asian mobster who has stolen his heart. Literally. With an artifical heart implant and a battery pack, Chev must constantly recharge the device to stay alive while searching for the man who has been implanted with his heart.

This one kicks off with a bit of plot history while jumping right into the action and plot development at the same time without taking a breath in between. After that the movie becomes a wild and crazy ride of adrenalin pumping action with plenty of nudity, violence and sex. Throughout the film we are treated to overlaid text windows telling Chev what he can do with himself. Add in a bit of cheeky humor, forget the laws of physics or human physical limitations, try not to think while sitting back an enjoying this one. The plot is really just a basic reason for everything that happens, not something to be resolved or followed. This is about action, sex, and violence pure and simple.

Acting was a minor inconvenience in this one. Statham was seriously underused while Smart was her usual self, Yoakam delivered as usual, and the remainder of the supporting cast was mediocre. There just isn't much to say about the acting here.

Camera work was painful throughout the film. If you are the least bit epileptic don't watch this as it may cause seizures. Actually, it may cause them anyway. The jerky, quick change action made the film quite difficult to watch though it supported the adrenalin rage of the film quite nicely. Sets and backgrounds were well done. Special effects, both mechanical and physical, were nicely done. Gore and violence were also nicely done. No doubt this film had a budget, I'm just not sure what it was used for at this point. Dialogue was mediocre while the soundtrack was nice with a good variety of well known tracks.

Overall this just didn't feel like a quality film. It felt more like a disjointed attempt by a group of meth-addicts who never saw the first film, didn't realize the possibilities of the script, and decided to use their budget on more drugs instead of the film. This is a love it or hate it film but you will have to watch it to figure out which it is for you. Plenty of violence, gore, nudity, graphic sexual content, and strong foul language so save this for adults and above.

Resurrection

Released: 1999
Reviewed: 11.7.09
Star rating: 2 out of 5

Christopher Lambert (John), Leland Orser (Andrew), Robert Joy (Gerald Demus), Barbara Tyson (Sara), Rick Fox (Scholfield), David Cronenberg (Father Rousell), Peter MacNeill (Captain Whippley).

A serial killer is loose and Detectives John and Andrew are chasing him down when John figures out the killer is trying to reconstruct the body of Christ in time for Easter. The catch is that the killer is using parts of victims for the recreation. As John deals with the death of his son, his failing marriage, and loss of faith the chase becomes more and more personal when the killer taunts the police.

This one has a pretty solid plot with an interesting storyline and many of the components of a serial killer story. It starts off well before taking many time-out's for character development that really detracted from the pace of the film. Bursts of drama punctuated with long dramatic dialogue filled scenes were frustrating after a while and many seemed to do nothing for the plot at all. Once the serial killer began taunting the police things got a bit more interesting and the film seemed to develop a good pace. The ending was strange with a nice ending to the main story then a brief add-on that felt like a Disney movie finale that just wasn't needed.

Acting was mixed with Lambert (I'm not a fan) being a disappointment as usual. Orser however did a very nice job in his role. Joy was also a pleasure to watch while the rest of the supporting cast was a mix of inexperience and competence.

Camera work was okay but some shaky, fast switch scenes got a bit annoying. Sets, background and sound were nicely done while dialogue seemed just completely unnecessary at times. Special effects consisted of some nicely done gore shots.

Overall this was a mediocre thriller that never really developed the energy the plot would have supported. The story was good but somewhat predictible and with the jerky pace, a bit mundane at times. Put this about the middle of your Must See list if you are a big serial killer or Lambert fan, otherwise put it in at the bottom. With some mild nudity, foul language, and plenty of gore save this one for older teens and above.

The Apple

Released: 1980
Reviewed: 11.5.09
Star rating: 2 out of 5

Catherine Stewart (Bibi), George Gilmour (Alphie), Grace Kennedy (Pandi), Allan Love (Dandi), Vladek Sheybal (Boogalow), Joss Ackland (Topps), Ray Shell (Shake), Miriam Margolyes (Landlady).

Innocents Alphie and Bibi dream of being musical stars so they compete at the Worldvision Song Festival and although they do well, the BIM corporation fixes the competition so they don't win. Afterwards BIM offers them a contract which Alphie thinks is a trap and Bibi thinks is a blessing, leading them to battle the BIM Corporation in this futuristic dystopia set in 1994.

This film is at once a piece of garbage and a unique blending of social paradigms. Set as a musical which apparently had grand aspirations the film is so overly glamorous and satirical you can't help but be amused. Or is that appalled? The music is ridiculous with songs like "Speed" and "I'm coming" that while catchy were mildly offensive being openly about drugs and sex. The plot seems to be about corporate dominance by an unusually disturbing gay contingent then shifts to a basic Good vs. Evil theme. At the same time we have BIM taking over the world and implementing a type of socialist control over people with mandated exercise hours and fashion police while an endless supply of religious satire is stuffed into the cracks. The icing on all of this is more obnoxiously colored polyester than I've ever before seen in my life. It was as if a posse of drag queens were given the job of costuming for this film and they competed against each other for the most flashy costume. With all that and an apparently decent budget, this still looks like a bad 80's big hair flick.

Acting was horrible, music was awful, camera work bad, dialogue repulsive, sets, background, and costuming were ridiculous. This was like watching the most beautiful train-wreck you have ever seen in your life and explained why there was a surge of drug use in the 80's, because things like this scared the hell out of everyone!

Sexually suggestive, racially an socially somewhat offensive but I don't remember any nudity, foul language, or disturbing violence so preens and above should be fine killing brain cells (errr, I mean, "watching") this one.

Runaway

Released: 1984
Reviewed: 11.4.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Tom Selleck (Ramsay), Cynthia Rhodes (Karen), Gene Simmons (Luther), Kirstie Alley (Jackie), Stan Shaw (Marvin), G.W. Bailey (Chief).

Ramsey and Karen are police robotics experts in this futuristic sci-fi in which the police monitor robots being used as servants and as manual labor. But when notorious criminal Luther unleashes acid filled killer robots and heat-seeking smart bullets the two cops find their hands full as they rush to stop the ensuing killing spree.

This one kicks off pretty well and keeps the plot moving with action scenes punctuated with plot movement scenes. What character development there is happens as part of the plot, which is actually decent.

Acting was mediocre. I've never been a Selleck fan and he just doesn't fit for me as a cop so although he did okay, he felt out of character to me. Rhodes was obviously inexperienced but also did okay. Simmons was interesting with an unnatural ability to look absolutely menacing whenever he wants. Surprisingly he can even deliver lines pretty well. Alley was eye candy and that's about it as she didn't deliver very well at all in this one.

Sets and background were nice and the movie apparently had a decent budget. Special effects were minimal, relying on camera tricks and small explosions for the most part. Camera work was decent as was sound but the soundtrack was ridiculous at best.

Overall, this film is pure 80's at its best. Grainy picture, bad soundtrack, big hair, and cheesy special effects. It's also a decently done sci-fi with enough plot and action to keep the film interesting. With a completely unnecessary topless scene, an implied nudity scene with Alley, some violence and blood, save this one for older teens and above.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

Released: 2008

Reviewed: 11.3.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Asa Butterfield (Bruno), Jack Scanlon (Shmuel), David Thewlis (Father), Vera Farmiga (Mother), Cara Horgan (Maria), Amber Beattie (Gretel), Rupert Friend (Lt. Kotler), Richard Johnson (Grandpa).

When Bruno and his family move from Berlin to Poland, Bruno makes friends with a boy named Shmuel who lives on the other side of a fence and wears striped pajamas. Unaware that his friend is in a Jewish camp or that his Nazi father controls the camp, Bruno tries to build a normal friendship with Shmuel without either realizing the dangers they face.

It is hard to write a review for this movie without giving away the plot, which is incredible. The film starts with character development and slowly unfolds the plot which is mainly psychological and apparent only toward the end of the film. Until then things proceed at a leisurely pace without apparent direction other than the friendship between Bruno and Shmuel and revelations about the depth of the Nazi fathers involvement in the war effort.

Acting helped to make this film as good as it was. Most everyone involved was believeable and seemed to have good energy despite the mild tempo of the film. Farmiga was a pleasure to watch, as was Friend.

Camera work was good while sets and background, though quite simple, added depth to the film. Sound and dialogue were nicely done as well and the film had an overall quality feel.

The meat in this one however is the plot. Though it is about the Holocaust, this isn't a historical representation, documentary, and may not have much basis in truth. This is the story of a German boy and a Jewish boy making friends on the front lines of the war, nothing more so don't expect it.

Overall the film will probably have a significant emotional impact for adults and is worth a spot in the top half of your Must See list. Younger viewers may find the Holocaust material mildly disturbing but will probably have lost interest well before it is obvious, otherwise this one is fine for any age group.

Waking Life

Released: 2001

Reviewed: 11.2.09
Star rating: 1 out of 5

Wiley Wiggins (Main Character), Bill Wise (Boat Car Guy), Ethan Hawke (Jesse), Julie Delpy (Celine), Adam Goldberg (One of 4 men), Caveh Zahedi (Himself), Kim Krizan (Herself).

Not knowing if he is conscious or dreaming, this animated film follows a nameless young man as he floats in and out of philosophical discussions with a variety of scholars, eccentrics, and other interesting characters. With conversations ranging from the mundane to profound, the film can be interesting, disturbing, confusing, or humorless.

Where the summary is slightly inaccurate is in describing the film as a series of discussions. In actuality the main character has very few conversations and spends more of his time being lectured by the characters he encounters. Most of them seem to be trying to impart fairly simple principles with elaborately flowered speech. The result is somewhere between indignation, confusion, and revelation.

Rating this one was a challenge. While the concept was interesting, I have to break things apart because I couldn't actually watch the video. The animation had characters in the foreground detached from the background which floated and wiggled aimlessly. Mixed with shaky, jerky, quick movements the result left me alternating between naseau and having a migraine so I had to listen to the audio without the video. For animation and video this one gets a big fat zero.

Audio was a bit better with some interesting speeches from some interesting characters. I actually enjoy how Adam Goldberg talks and several of the speeches were somewhat profound and thought provoking. That said, the downside was their presentation as absolute without any questioning. There was also a prevalent feeling of grandstanding throughout the film. For that, the content, it gets 2 stars.

Overall I think this one is going to appeal to an extremely narrow audience with specific interests in either animation or philosophy. Combined with foul language and a few violent images, this one gets 1 star and can be viewed by teens and above.

Race to Witch Mountain

Released: 2009

Reviewed: 11.1.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Dwayne Johnson (Jack), AnnaSophia Robb (Sara), Alexander Ludwig (Seth), Carla Gugino (Alex), Ciaran Hinds (Burke), Tom Scott (Matheson), Chris Marquette (Pope), Billy Brown (Carson), Garry Marshall (Harlan).

In this remake of Escape to Witch Mountain, alien siblings Sara and Seth find themselves crash landed on Earth, their ship confiscated by the government who is also trying to capture them, and a soldier from their home-world hunting them. Befriended by cab driver Jack and UFO expert Alex, they desperately try to find their ship so they can escape Earth alive. Sara and Seth from the original movie, Kim Richards and Ike Eisenmann, make cameo appearances.

This seemed a bit more goofy than the original I remember but I was pretty young when Escape to Witch Mountain came out. The plot seems a bit different as well but, this film reminded me why I liked the original when I was a kid. With their cool powers things just seem to work out for Sara and Seth the way you would want them to work out. Just enough danger to make it exciting but they never really get hurt. I enjoyed the plot with this one, it was simple and never tried to be more than it was. The bits of humor kept the film from being brooding and helped the plot move along nicely.

Acting was good all around. I was particularly impressed with Johnson who has come a long way with his acting skills. Robb and Ludwig delivered well while Gugino and Hinds both brought good energy around their parts.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were all nicely done. Special effects were minimal and tastefully done adding to the overall quality feel of the film. Dialogue and sound were good as well.

Overall this is a great family movie and for those who saw the original as kids this can bring the same type of story to their kids. Mild violence and a mean space alien but otherwise there isn't anything to limit audience age.

Firelight

Released: 1997

Reviewed: 10.30.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Sophie Marceau (Elisabeth), Stephen Dillane (Charles), Dominique Belcourt (Louisa), Kevin Anderson (John), Lia Williams (Constance), Joss Ackland (Lord Clare).

Elisabeth agrees to conceive a child with Charles and give him the baby when it is born in exchange for money enough to pay her family debts. The agreement is that she will never see the child again as Charles wants an heir and his paralyzed wife is unable to conceive. But 7 years later Elisabeth tracks down her daughter Louisa and is hired by Constance, not knowing who she is, to be the childs governess.



This one kicks off at a mediocre pace and never really builds any more momentum. With a bit of plot and character history combined and out of the way, the film settles in to telling an often sad but entertaining love story. Make no mistake, this is a paperback romance on film with a couple of nude scenes tossed in to keep accidental male viewers entertained. Though I'm not a big fan of romances this one was actually pretty good. The plot was decent and there was just enough intrigue and angst to keep things interesting.

Acting was pretty good by most everyone involved though Belcourt seemed a bit over the top a couple of times. The idea of John asking a woman he barely knows to marry him was hard to swallow but really, that wasn't Anderson's fault. That was just his character.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were all nicely done though a bit dark in parts. Excellent lighting used to accent Marceau's features. Sound, dialogue and score were also nicely done giving the feeling of a quality film.

Overall this was a pretty good romance with a nice, if bland, storyline. It helped that Marceau is very enjoyable to look at, and even more so when naked. With adult content, language, nudity, and fairly explicit sex scenes save this one for adults and above. If you are a romance genre fan you will probably enjoy this one more than most.

100 Feet

Released: 2008
Reviewed: 10.30.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Famke Janssen (Marnie), Bobby Cannavale (Shanks), Ed Westwick (Joey), Michael Pare (Mike), John Fallon (Jimmy).

Marnie kills her abusive cop husband Mike in self-defense and now years later will serve the remainder of her sentence under house arrest. But when she moves back into the house she shared with her husband his ghost quickly makes it clear he hasn't forgiven her. With Mike's partner, Shanks, watching her every move and Marnie unable to travel more than 100-feet from the electronic ankle bracelet base she finds herself trapped in her own home with a very angry ghost.

There is some minor character development followed by a quick plot setup before this one gets to the meat of things. Once there, the action really moves along and does a great job of keeping you on the edge of your seat. As the violence slowly increases in frequency and extent Marnie becomes more and more desperate while at the same time fighting back. I enjoyed that Marnie was depicted as a woman willing to fight back rather than just run around screaming and cowering in the corner. Although I didn't think the movie was exactly 'scary', it did keep my attention very well. The ending was a bit simple after the build-up of the movie but still well done.

Acting was very good from Janssen and she was believeable as an angry battered wife who had done prison time. Cannavale impressed me in his role as well with good energy. I'm also glad Pare didn't have a bigger role as I think it would have detracted from the film.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were all nicely done. Special effects were much better than I expected from this film and the one gore scene is awesome. Dialogue and sound were also well done resulting in a good quality film.

Overall a well done supernatural thriller well worth the time if you are at all a fan of the genre. With a fair amount of violence, terror, foul language and one sex scene save this for older teens and above.

Altered

Released: 2006

Reviewed: 10.30.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Misty Rosas (Foki), Paul McCarthy-Boyington (Cody), Brad Henke (Duke), Michael Williams (Otis), Adam Kaufman (Wyatt), Cathering Mangan (Hope), James Gammon (Sheriff).

15 years ago five high school buddies were abducted by aliens from a farm. One died, three were returned immediately, and Wyatt was returned a couple of days later. Wyatt became a bit of a recluse and seems to know a lot about the aliens. So when the other 3 friends capture an alien years later they bring it to Wyatt for help. But the aliens are far from helpless and revenge sounds easier than it is as they soon find out.



This one starts off a bit strangely and looks like it will be a loser but if you can hang with it for 15 minutes or so things will improve dramatically. There isn't much character development here and we get to know them as the plot develops. The publicized summary of the film is a bit misleading as the 5 friends returning to the farm doesn't really happen as a major plot point. This is really about the 5 friends capturing an alien which results in the aliens hunting them and the possible extermination of the human race. Though it sounds boring, this results in a nice gory bloodfest mixed with multiple psychological elements sure to affect anyone watching the film.

Acting was surprisingly good in this one with everyone delivering energetic performances and having nice chemistry with each other.

Camera work, sets, and background were all nicely done with good attention to detail. Special effects were wonderful. The aliens were believeable and well detailed while effects around gore shots were excellent. I won't soon forget seeing a tug of war with intestines! Dialogue was decent and sound was well done.

Overall I was pleasantly surprised by this one and don't know how it flew under my radar for this long. A well done horror or psychological thriller, this will probably be enjoyed by both horror and sci-fi fans alike. Put this in the top half of your Must See list.

Plenty of violence, explicit gore, and foul language so save this for the oldest teens and above.

Deep Blue Sea

Released: 1999

Reviewed: 10.29.09
Star rating: 3 out of 5

Thomas Jane (Carter), Saffron Burrows (Susan), LL Cool J (Preacher), Michael Rapaport (Scoggs), Stellan Skarsgard (Jim), Samuel L. Jackson (Franklin), Jacqueline McKenzie (Janice), Aida Turturro (Brenda).

What happens when you make a sharks brain 5 times larger than normal? It gets really smart. And when you trap it underwater with a group of humans (snacks), it gets angry as well. That's what happens after Susan genetically alters a group of sharks for research purposes. But once the sharks get smart they develop their own ideas about who is at the top of the food chain.



This one starts off looking like another episode in the Jaws franchise but soon turns into something different. With some awkward character development out of the way the film shifts gears and the plot starts to unfold. Or is that, unravel? Carter suspects the sharks may be getting smarter but when corporate executive Franklin shows up it becomes fairly obvious, as evidenced by the quote "What does an 8 thousand pound Mako shark with a brain the size of a flat-head V8 engine and no natural predators think about?" The better question is, why do they not realize what is happening sooner since one of the sharks already got out? And, how does an 8 thousand pound shark fit easily through a bulkhead door?

Acting was pretty good surprisingly. The main characters all delivered pretty well and fit their roles nicely. Cool J as a preacher was a bit hard to swallow at first but Jackson as a jerk is easy to swallow for more than just the audience.

Camera work, sets, and backgrounds were nicely done. Despite the film spending a lot of time in the water it was very watchable. Special effects were nicely done though CGI was very obvious at times.

Despite the plot holes this was a nicely done creature feature. Good acting and filming gave this a feeling of quality making it much better than a lot of genetic horror flicks. With some graphic violence, gore, and foul language save this one for teens and above.

Watchmen

Released: 2009
Reviewed: 10.28.09
Star rating: 4 out of 5

Malin Akerman (Laurie Jupiter / Silk Spectre II), Billy Crudup (Dr. Manhattan / Jon), Matthew Goode (Veidt / Ozymandias), Jackie Haley (Kovacs / Rorschach), Jeffrey Morgan (Blake / Comedian), Patrick Wilson (Dan / Nite Owl II), Carla Gugino (Sally Jupiter / Silk Spectre), Matt Frewer (Jacobi / Moloch).

Imagine if we had won Vietnam, if Nixon had been re-elected twice, and if superhero's existed but were prohibited from using their powers. Set in 1985, the parallel universe depicted in Watchmen has all those things. Now with nuclear war looming and a superhero serial killer apparently on the loose, the Watchmen reunite, illegally, to defend themselves and prevent nuclear war.

This one kicks off nicely by immediately setting the plot into motion. As things unfold we get some character development mixed in with the plot which helps to flesh out the story a bit. Unfortunately they make the plot seem much more complex than it really was and serve mainly as interesting distractions. A lot of time is spent by the viewer actually trying to figure out what the plot is, and what superpowers the main characters have. Add in a warped romance or two that don't make much sense and you are left with a less than energetic film that feels disjointed and lacking direction most of the time.

Acting was unusual. Akerman was a pleasure to watch as was Crudup's character though seeing acting skills with the CGI used would be difficult. Goode was interesting while Haley was superb. Morgan, Wilson, Gugino and Frewer were mediocre.

Special effects were a big part of this film with costumes, weapons, action scenes, aircraft, and even other planets part of the mix. If other parts of the film were lacking, effects were not. I particularly enjoyed effects around Jon and the structure built on Mars. Sound was lousy with low dialogue and very high action scenes. Dialogue below average and soundtrack was above average with some good tunes.

Overall this would have been a nice movie for preens had they kept out the sex and foul language. Instead it is a less than energetic comic book entry that will appeal to a limited audience at best. With graphic violence, foul language, nudity, and sexual scenes save this one for older teens and above.